NEWCASTLE LATEST
Keith Downie has given us the latest on Newcastle's transfers. It looks set to be a very busy day on Tyneside...
Yes, I think it’s going to happen. Almiron has been here on Tyneside since yesterday afternoon. He started his medical late yesterday afternoon and was up at the training ground. I expect him up at the training ground again later today to finalise the deal. We’ll have to wait and see as to whether he actually trains with the squad but Rafael Benitez and Newcastle are very keen to get that one pushed through very quickly.
The deal is for £21m. I’ve been working up here in the North East for five-and-a-half-years and it’s by far the biggest transfer business I’ve seen Newcastle do. Mike Ashley is keen to try and keep Benitez, who has got just a few months left on his contract, at the club.
On top of Almiron, Newcastle have another player in today.
Antonio Barreca arrived at tea time yesterday and met with club officials. He’ll finish his medical later on today and we can expect an announcement on that one.
We understand Newcastle could yet add more. They are looking for a midfielder and are in talks with Andreas Samaras, a Greek international from Benfica. They could yet make a move for him if Isaac Hayden completes a move to Aston Villa. That’s three and there’s a potential for a fourth. Benitez told us a few weeks ago that he wants another winger.
